Birthing Positions of Deer
Does typically give birth while standing, though lying down can also occur. When a doe is in labor, she may alternate between standing and lying down, but the actual delivery often happens from a standing position. This allows gravity to assist in the fawn’s emergence, which is usually feet-first with the head tucked between the forelegs. This standing delivery helps the newborn to drop to the ground, aiding in breaking the umbilical cord and stimulating the fawn’s first breaths.
While standing is a common birthing position, some does may lie down during delivery, especially in the later stages of labor. The choice of position can be influenced by factors such as the doe’s age and experience, environmental conditions, and individual preference.
The Fawning Process
A doe’s gestation period averages about 190 to 210 days, with most fawns born between May and June. As birth approaches, a pregnant doe exhibits behavioral changes. She becomes increasingly restless and will separate herself from the herd, seeking a secluded area. Her udder may begin to swell one to two weeks before birth, and she might pace or hold her tail at “half-mast” in the days leading up to delivery.
Once labor begins, which can last from 24 to 48 hours, the active birthing process is often quick, typically less than 30 minutes. If a doe lies down, the fawn is usually delivered within this timeframe. After the fawn is born, the doe immediately begins licking the newborn clean to remove amniotic fluid and any scent that could attract predators. This vigorous cleaning also stimulates the fawn’s breathing and circulation. Fawns are generally born weighing between 4 to 8 pounds and are able to stand within 10 to 20 minutes after birth, though their legs remain wobbly. The doe will also consume the afterbirth to eliminate any traces that could alert predators to the fawn’s presence.
Choosing a Birthing Site
A doe’s selection of a birthing site is a strategic decision aimed at maximizing the fawn’s survival chances. She seeks out secluded areas with dense cover, such as thickets, tall grass, bracken, or dense woods. These locations provide camouflage and concealment for the vulnerable newborn, protecting it from predators and the elements.
Isolation from other deer is also important, as it minimizes disturbances and helps establish the maternal bond between the doe and her fawn. Experienced does often return to the same fawning areas year after year if the location remains suitable, indicating a learned familiarity with safe sites. The chosen site will provide adequate horizontal vegetation density to obscure the fawn from view, a key defense mechanism for the “hider” strategy that fawns employ in their first weeks of life.